10 Best Backpack Coolers 2025 in the United States

The Yeti Hopper M15 Soft Cooler is a solid choice for those who want a tough, portable backpack cooler for activities like beach trips, boating, or short hikes. It can hold about 32 cans or 15.5 pounds of ice, which is enough for small groups or day outings. Its insulation uses ColdCell closed-cell foam that does a good job keeping your items cold for several hours. The dryhide nylon shell feels rugged and resists punctures and sun damage, making it durable in outdoor conditions.

A smart feature is the MagShield Access—a magnetic seal system that helps prevent leaks while being easy to open and close, adding convenience and confidence that your cooler won't spill. Weighing approximately 3.45 kg (around 7.6 lbs), it’s not the lightest option, so it may feel a bit heavy if you’re carrying it for long distances, and comfort depends on personal preference since strap details aren't emphasized. It also comes with a kangaroo pocket on the outside for quick access to small essentials like keys or your phone.

It is water-resistant but not fully waterproof, so it’s better at handling splashes than submersion. The size is moderate, so if you need to carry larger amounts or longer-lasting ice retention, this might feel limited. For those who value durability and leak resistance in a manageable size with some handy pockets, the Hopper M15 stands out as a reliable, well-made cooler backpack.

The YETI Hopper M20 Backpack Cooler is a great choice if you want a hands-free way to carry drinks or food while keeping them cold. It holds about 18 cans or 26 pounds of ice, which suits small outings or day trips. Thanks to its ColdCell insulation, it does a solid job keeping your items chilly for hours. Its DryHide shell material is tough and resistant to punctures and sun damage, making it durable enough for outdoor adventures. The MagShield Access feature uses magnets to keep the cooler sealed tight against leaks but also lets you open it easily, which is handy.

At around 3.4 kilograms (or 7.5 pounds), it's not the lightest backpack but carries comfortably due to smart design and multiple handles. The built-in HitchPoint Grid is a nice touch, allowing you to attach extra gear like toolkits or bottle openers. On the downside, its 6.3-liter capacity might feel limited if you need to carry larger loads or longer trips. Also, while waterproof and leak-resistant, you should avoid submerging it fully in water.

This backpack cooler suits campers, hikers, or anyone needing a reliable, portable cooler that blends durability and ease of use without being overly bulky.

The SPARTER Backpack Cooler is designed for those who enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, camping, or beach outings. It holds up to 30 cans, making it spacious for food and drinks. The cooler's insulation capabilities are notable, retaining chill for up to 20 hours, thanks to the thick 8 mm foam and advanced seal technology. This feature is particularly beneficial for long days outdoors when keeping beverages cold is essential.

In terms of practicality, the leak-proof liner offers peace of mind, although users need to be cautious about the zipper area not being completely leak-proof. The inclusion of double insulated compartments allows for convenient separation of drinks and dry foods, while additional pockets provide space for personal items like your phone or snacks.

Lightweight at just 1.1 pounds, this backpack cooler is easy to carry, and the padded shoulder straps enhance comfort during travel. The water-resistant nylon material adds to its durability, making it suitable for various weather conditions. Potential users should note the cooler's weight capacity and design. Although it can hold up to 30 cans, it may become cumbersome to carry when fully loaded. Additionally, while the leak-proof feature works well for the liner, the zipper’s limitations could lead to spills if not handled carefully. Its hand-wash care instruction might also be inconvenient for some users.